EMALAHLENI - Youth football and netball teams competed in the Gattuso Birthday Celebration Tournament at the Lovelife Sports Grounds in Ezinambeni on 28 February 2026, where young athletes showcased their skills in front of community supporters.
The tournament is held annually in honour of Vusi “Gattuso” Kabinde, Chairperson of the Ezinambeni Local Football Association (ELFA), and aims to promote youth development through sport. “This tournament is about empowering the youth, improving and developing their skills through sport and promoting true sportsmanship,” said Kabinde.
“I would also like to thank the coaches and parents who continue grooming and allowing children to participate in sports.”
Blackburn Rovers win U15 boys final
Blackburn Rovers defeated Pain Killers 2–1 in the Under-15 boys’ football final. Both teams created scoring opportunities, but Blackburn Rovers converted their chances to secure the victory. Pain Killers remained competitive until the final whistle, but Blackburn maintained control in key moments of the match.
Blackburn Rovers coach Thulane Khoza said the team adjusted their tactics to deal with their opponents’ physical advantage. “It wasn't easy because Pain Killers used wing play and crossing, and they are tall, whereas my boys are shorter,” he said.
Khoza explained that he encouraged his players to focus on combination play, movement and positioning to control the match. He added that the striker’s speed and endurance helped the team secure the winning goals.
Mpumalanga Rising Stars Ladies win girls U15 final
The Under-15 girls’ final between Mpumalanga Rising Stars ladies and Sbobo Ladies ended goalless after regulation time.
Mpumalanga Rising Stars Ladies secured the championship after winning 5–4 in a dramatic penalty shoot-out. The team received gold medals, training bibs, two training soccer balls and individual awards.
Buhle Tshali finished as the tournament’s top goal scorer with four goals in three matches, while Siphesihle Ndaba was named goalkeeper of the tournament after keeping three clean sheets.
Apple Poison win netball final
In the netball final, Apple Poison defeated Passion Ocean 18–17 in a closely contested match. The teams remained evenly matched throughout the game, with Apple Poison securing victory by a single goal in the final stages of the match.
Lungile Mahlangu received the Best goal shooter and goal attack award for her performance during the tournament. Ayanda Khalo from Apple Poison said the team’s preparation and coaching played an important role in their success. “ Our coach’s expertise and dedication to developing talent have truly paid off. The girls are thriving under their guidance. With a strong start to the tournament, we sailed into the finals. Despite some curveballs, we stuck to the plan and nailed it. We’re beyond proud of the club’s performance,” she said.
The event attracted support from coaches, parents and community members, highlighting the role of sport in promoting discipline, teamwork and confidence among young people in the Ezinambeni community.
